Posted by judaicamore on 8th Sep 2025
For many, the glow of a Hanukkah menorah lit with candles is a cherished sight. But for those who wish to connect with the ancient tradition of the Holy Temple, lighting the menorah with olive oil is a truly special experience.
Using glass oil cups is a simple and elegant way to transform any menorah—even one designed for candles—into a beautiful oil lamp. This guide will walk you through the benefits and how to get started.
Using oil instead of candles offers a direct connection to the miracle of Hanukkah. It's a way to honor the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Temple, creating a more authentic and meaningful celebration.
Our glass oil cups are designed to make this tradition easy and accessible. They fit securely into most standard menorah branches, allowing you to use your existing menorah.
Preparation: Place a wick into each of the glass cups. Make sure the wick is centered and stands straight.
Fill with Oil: Fill each cup with high-quality olive oil. The oil should cover the wick, but be careful not to overfill.
Light Your Menorah: On each of the eight nights, place the filled cups in your menorah and light them, beginning with the shamash (helper candle).
Enjoy the Glow: The pure olive oil will burn beautifully and steadily, creating a warm, spiritual light.
Our cups are also versatile. They can be used as beautiful glass inserts for candelabras and other decorative pieces throughout the year.
To make this tradition even easier, consider purchasing a complete set that includes the cups and wicks. This ensures you have everything you need to begin this beautiful practice.
The Menorah: More Than Just a Hanukkah Symbol When you see a menorah, your mind probably goes straight to Hanukkah. The nine-branched candelabra, lit for eight nights, is a central part of the holiday celebration. But did you know that the story of the menorah is much older and has another, equally powerful form? As a symbol [...]